Dimitrov Wins in Paris Masters Return

Grigor Dimitrov made his comeback at the Rolex Paris Masters after three months sidelined by a pectoral injury that forced his Wimbledon retirement while leading Jannik Sinner. The 34-year-old defeated local hope Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 7-6(5), 6-1 in the opening round, holding serve throughout and taking control in the second set. Now ranked around world No. 38, Dimitrov said he is still adjusting to the rigours of competition and is “taking it one day at a time” as he rebuilds fitness. He has been training with peers including Andrey Rublev and Francisco Cerundolo as he aims to return to full force next season. He is also competing in doubles alongside retiring French Grand Slam champion Nicolas Mahut. Dimitrov will face either 11th seed Daniil Medvedev or Jaume Munar in the second round.